Figural Ornaments: Santa, Angels, and More! A Collector's Overview

Welcome to the delightful realm of figural Christmas ornaments! These ornaments, shaped like characters and objects, are a beloved part of vintage Christmas decor and represent a significant portion of the collectible ornaments market. For enthusiasts of antique Christmas and vintage ornaments, figural ornaments hold a special charm, often evoking memories and adding a touch of nostalgia to holiday displays. This overview will explore the world of figural ornaments, highlighting popular types, eras, and what to look for when adding them to your collection.

What Are Figural Ornaments?

Simply put, a figural ornament is any Christmas ornament shaped like something – a person, animal, object, or whimsical character. Unlike simple ball ornaments or icicles, figural ornaments tell a story and often represent specific holiday traditions or cultural icons.

Popular Figural Ornament Types

Santa Claus

Santa Claus figural ornaments are arguably the most recognizable and sought-after. Early Santa ornaments, from the late 1800s and early 1900s, are highly prized. Styles evolved over time – from the early papier-mâché and felt Santas to the later molded composition and glass figures. Look for details like hand-painted features, unique clothing, and expressions that convey personality.

Angels

Angels represent a beautiful and ethereal aspect of the Christmas story. Victorian-era angel ornaments, often made of paper, felt, or early glass, are particularly collectible. Later glass angels can be found in a wider variety of poses and styles.

Animals

Animals frequently appear as Christmas ornaments, from reindeer and doves to squirrels and bears. These ornaments often reflect the natural world and add a playful element to holiday decorations. Early animal ornaments were often made of felt or paper mache.

Whimsical Characters

Beyond the traditional, many vintage ornaments feature whimsical characters – elves, clowns, and even gingerbread men! These ornaments often represent the playful side of Christmas and add a unique touch to any tree.

Materials and Eras

Early Materials (Late 1800s - Early 1900s)

Early figural ornaments were frequently crafted from paper, felt, cardboard, and early forms of molded composition. These materials were readily available and relatively inexpensive. Composition ornaments, a type of molded plaster, were particularly popular, often hand-painted with intricate details. These older ornaments often show signs of wear, which can add to their character and value.

Glass Production (Mid-1900s onwards)

The mid-20th century saw a rise in glass Christmas ornaments, offering a wider range of colors, shapes, and designs. Companies like Fenton and Corning produced beautiful glass figural ornaments that remain highly collectible today.

Tips for Collectors

• Research: Familiarize yourself with different manufacturers and eras to better understand the value and authenticity of an ornament.
• Condition: Condition is crucial. Look for damage such as cracks, chips, and fading paint.
• Original Packaging: If possible, try to find ornaments with their original boxes or tags, as this can significantly increase their value.
• Tell a Story: Collect ornaments that resonate with you and tell a story. Building a collection that represents your personal connection to Christmas is the most rewarding aspect of collecting collectible ornaments.